Tasmanian rock lobster prices skyrocket on the back of Chinese demand
Tasmanians may struggle to afford local lobster this Christmas as Chinese demand drives up the price.
(Photo : ABC News)
Prices have risen to about $115 per kilogram in some retail outlets, making the average cray between $75 and $85.
The reason behind the $30 per kilo rise on last year's price is an increase in demand from China.
According to exporter Michael Blake, the recent visit of China's president Xi Jinping pushed prices up.
"I definitely think he created a buzz," he said.
"A lot of people were excited that he was here and our customers were definitely talking to us about the fact he was here."
Fishmonger Ann-Marie Thomson said customers were a little shocked by the prices.
"They've been a little astounded and they often go down the 'I remember when' path," she said.
"Then you have to remind them that it's not like it was, and it's a good thing that it's not - we now have a very carefully controlled fishery."
Ms Thomson said she had been been inundated with orders for lobster and people were willing to splash out for a special occasion.
"It's a point of conversation but it's Christmas, 'Hell, you know, let's spend'," she said.
Fishermen were being paid about 50 per cent more for their catch than last year, with well over 90 per cent of Tasmania's catch exported to China.
John Sansom from the Tasmanian Rock Lobster Fisherman's Association said the catch followed the money.
"Fishermen are small businessmen, they have to sell their product where they get the most money for it and market demands are in China so that's where the product goes," he said.
"If you want Tasmanian lobster which the Chinese see as the red dragon fish, top of the poles, I'm afraid you have to pay the same price."
Source : ABC News Lauren Day December 18th 2014
